Loretta invites us to envision a world where respect and dignity are universal, and differences are celebrated as vital to our society. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on childhood experiences, they emphasize that the journey toward inclusivity begins in our everyday interactions, encouraging us to engage in open, honest conversations about identity and belonging. By fostering curiosity and understanding in ourselves and the next generation, we can collectively create a more compassionate and equitable world. Join us in this transformative journey! Loretta is an educator with more than 20 years of experience. She grew up between cultures, moving several times during her childhood growing up as a refugee and immigrant. She is also the mother of two multi-racial,Cross Culture Kids. Her experiences of straddling several cultures as a child, adult, parent and educator have made her aware of how people negotiate belonging in different spaces. This tension drives her curiosity, inquiry and research into belonging. Loretta is an Associate Principal and Curriculum Coordinator at Frankfurt International School, Wiesbaden. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Loretta invites us to envision a world where respect and dignity are universal, and differences are celebrated as vital to our society. Through personal anecdotes and reflections on childhood experiences, they emphasize that the journey toward inclusivity begins in our everyday interactions, encouraging us to engage in open, honest conversations about identity and belonging. By fostering curiosity and understanding in ourselves and the next generation, we can collectively create a more compassionate and equitable world. Join us in this transformative journey! Sign Language Interpreter: Day Helsinger-Nixon Loretta is an educator with more than 20 years of experience. She grew up between cultures, moving several times during her childhood growing up as a refugee and immigrant. She is also the mother of two multi-racial,Cross Culture Kids. Her experiences of straddling several cultures as a child, adult, parent and educator have made her aware of how people negotiate belonging in different spaces. This tension drives her curiosity, inquiry and research into belonging. Loretta is an Associate Principal and Curriculum Coordinator at Frankfurt International School, Wiesbaden. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Uncover the path to global change by standing against gender-based violence and racism. This talk will empower you to become a voice for the voiceless, challenging the injustices that continue to oppress girls and women. Learn how humanity and humility can drive action against female genital mutilation (FGM) and other forms of violence. Explore the connection between your inner world and your ability to impact the world around you. Together, let’s rise up—because being a woman is not a crime. Sign Language Interpreter: Lissa Zeviar Saba Hussein is an activist, educator, and social worker. She is the founder of “Diaspora’s Voice,” a platform dedicated to anti-racism, women’s empowerment, and social change. Born and raised in Fulda, Germany, Saba is committed to creating a global impact, starting from her hometown. She has taught in Kuwait and travelled extensively to understand the needs of various cultures and countries. Saba has mentored orphaned girls in Somalia and Kenya, focusing on making education accessible and fighting against FGM. She is a justice advocate against racism, bullying, Islamophobia, and gender-based violence. For her, empowerment means nurturing both oneself and others. She also finds art in words through her poetry slams, addressing injustice and inspiring change.She initiated a petition in Hesse to revise school curricula on racism and colonial history, emphasising that change begins with representation and education—the narrative being shared is crucial. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Belle, a public figure and content creator, explores beauty’s digital evolution. She challenged traditional media by letting real women, not editors, define beauty. As social media reshaped industry power, she embraced the shift, championing diversity and authenticity. Her talk urges us to embrace change and redefine beauty together. Belle Rodolfo is a creative professional with extensive experience in the beauty and publishing industries. She is the former Beauty and Social Media Editor at L'Officiel Philippines, where she manages the beauty department and fosters relationships with beauty brands. Belle oversees both print and digital beauty stories, coordinating editorial shoots and brand campaigns. Her role extends to content strategy for social media, ensuring a cohesive narrative for both cover stories and collaborations.Before joining L'Officiel, Belle held key positions in notable beauty companies. She worked as Senior Copy for Sephora USA and led product development at Sunnies Face, where she managed everything from ideation to production. Her expertise also includes creating content for luxury brands like Makeup For Ever and Benefit Cosmetics during her tenure at Luxasia Philippines. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Marja guides a brief sound relaxation session, creating a genuine pause amid the high energy of the event. This session enhances focus, supports lasting integration of content and reduces stress, allowing participants’ nervous systems to reset. Marja brings her two greatest passions – nature and the healing power of sound – into her work, designing transformative experiences under her guiding motto: “From mental overload to inner balance”. Marja is a resilience expert dedicated to bringing joy and balance to the corporate world. With over 13 years of event management experience, she shifted her focus during the pandemic to helping others find inner stability and strength. Through her company, STEP AHEAD, Marja combines her passions for nature and sound healing to create transformative experiences that guide leaders and teams from mental overload to inner harmony. Her work—ranging from keynotes and workshops to sound healing and nature-based coaching—empowers individuals to thrive in times of change, fostering clarity, resilience, and joy. Marja’s mission is to help others stay one STEP AHEAD, ensuring balance and well-being are at the core of success. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx